Smart Roads

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) use new and emerging technology to reduce congestion, save money, improve safety and reduce environmental impacts in all areas of transportation.

These systems have several components including:

Traffic sensors

Electronic signs

Cameras

Controls

Communication technologies

Current Projects

Improving Traffic Flow on Whitemud Drive

The City is testing new technology designed to reduce traffic snarls. The Advisory Driving Speed system provides drivers with an optimum driving speed if traffic volume is heavy, if there is construction or a collision ahead, or if inclement weather is affecting road conditions.

Northlands and West Edmonton Mall Traffic Responsive System

The Northlands Traffic Responsive System actively monitors traffic patterns in the Northlands area 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and automatically applies the appropriate signal timing plans to improve traffic flow.

Video Traffic Management (VTM) and Traveller Information (TI) Project

Traffic cameras have been installed at strategic locations throughout the City to monitor current traffic conditions. The images from these cameras are monitored at the City's Traffic Management Centre and are available on Traffic Cameras.

Benefits along monitored corridors:

Improve incident response

Assist traffic management

Efficient traffic flows

Provide public with a view of current traffic situations

Assist commuters in choosing alternate routes or times of travel

Yellowhead Trail ITS Simulation Laboratory and Edmonton Showcase

The City has completed the concept and planning phase of the Yellowhead Trail ITS project and is awaiting funding for implementation. By combining the current intelligent traffic tools with the new computer system, traffic will be controlled more efficiently.

Current Traffic Tools

New Technology

Monitor routes

Adapt to traffic in real time

Assist drivers in determining best detours

Detect problems

Make real time traffic signal and DMS sign changes

Predict traffic flows

Provide route guidance to detouring traffic

Update in-vehicle navigation

Using Yellowhead Corridor as a Test Case

The Yellowhead Corridor is a major arterial roadway and main truck route through the City. It has the highest concentration of trucks and congestion for an arterial roadway that is not a freeway. Intelligent traffic tools have been in place for a few years making it easier to merge with the new software.

Goals

Faster commute time.

Better information when there is a problem.

Real time updated information.

Information will also be available to private sector and public to make use of it to develop applications.